The Samsung S85F OLED TV is Samsung’s 2025 entry-level OLED offering, replacing the 2024 S85D with a QD-OLED panel upgrade that delivers richer colors and stronger brightness. The 55-inch model just hit $897 at Amazon—a $500 discount from its original price—following a 4-star review from Tom’s Guide that praised its picture quality as the standout feature.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung S85F OLED TV uses QD-OLED panel technology for more vivid colors than the S85D predecessor.
- 55-inch model now $897 at Amazon, down $500 from launch price.
- HDR peak brightness reaches 943 nits, exceeding LG’s B5 at 632 nits.
- Tom’s Guide awarded 4 stars, highlighting rich colors and strong brightness as standout features.
- Available in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes; 65-inch priced at $1,499.99.
Samsung S85F OLED TV Picture Quality and Brightness
The Samsung S85F OLED TV delivers where it counts most: picture quality. The QD-OLED panel produces rich, vivid colors with impressive brightness for an entry-level OLED. In dark rooms, the TV achieves perfect black levels—a signature OLED strength—while maintaining adequate HDR performance. The HDR peak brightness of 943 nits puts it ahead of competitors like the LG B5, which maxes out at 632 nits. This brightness advantage matters in mixed-usage scenarios, where the TV performs well in both dark and bright rooms without glare or reflections.
Tom’s Guide’s 4-star review emphasized the picture quality as the star of the show, noting that the Samsung S85F OLED TV brings premium OLED benefits to a lower price point than many rivals. The QD-OLED technology, inherited from Samsung’s higher-end models, ensures colors remain vibrant across a wide range of content. However, some users have reported that certain content—particularly non-OLED graphics—can appear less natural compared to native OLED material, a minor tradeoff at this price.
Current Deal: 55-Inch Model at $897
The 55-inch Samsung S85F OLED TV is currently available at Amazon for $897, representing a $500 discount from its original launch price. This deal makes the Samsung S85F OLED TV one of the most affordable QD-OLED options on the market. For comparison, the 65-inch model carries a full retail price of $1,499.99 USD. The 4-star review timing and the price drop create a genuine opportunity for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium OLED picture quality without flagship pricing.
The discount is significant enough to make the Samsung S85F OLED TV competitive against step-down alternatives like standard LCD TVs or older OLED models. Customers at Best Buy have rated the 65-inch variant 4.8 out of 5 stars across 49 reviews, suggesting strong real-world satisfaction with the series. However, the sale price is time-limited, and inventory at Amazon may vary by region and availability window.
Samsung S85F OLED TV vs. Competitors
The Samsung S85F OLED TV sits in a crowded entry-level OLED segment. It outperforms the LG B5 in brightness—943 nits versus 632 nits—giving it an edge in mixed-lighting environments. However, it falls short of premium rivals like Panasonic’s top-tier OLED models, which achieve peak brightness around 1,035 nits. The QD-OLED panel is a meaningful upgrade over the S85D’s standard OLED technology, delivering more color saturation and punch without a proportional price increase.
Samsung’s own step-up models and competing OLED brands like LG and Panasonic remain stronger choices for buyers prioritizing absolute brightness or specialized features. The Samsung S85F OLED TV is best suited for buyers who value color accuracy and affordability over chasing the brightest possible peak HDR performance. The SamsungVision AI Smart Tizen OS provides a familiar interface for Samsung ecosystem users, though this does not substantially differentiate it from competitors.
Should You Buy the Samsung S85F OLED TV at $897?
At $897 for the 55-inch model, the Samsung S85F OLED TV represents strong value for anyone stepping into OLED for the first time. The 4-star review and customer feedback suggest the picture quality justifies the investment, especially for dark-room viewing where OLED’s black levels shine. The QD-OLED panel ensures colors remain vivid, and the 943-nit HDR peak handles bright content without washing out.
The main caveat: if you watch primarily in very bright rooms and prioritize absolute peak brightness, premium models from Panasonic or LG’s higher tiers may serve you better. Additionally, some users report that non-OLED content can look less natural, though this is a minor concern for most mixed-usage scenarios. For the price, the Samsung S85F OLED TV is a legitimate entry point into premium OLED technology.
Is the Samsung S85F OLED TV worth upgrading from an older OLED model?
If you own a 2023 or earlier OLED TV, the upgrade depends on your current model’s condition and your viewing habits. The QD-OLED panel and improved brightness are genuine upgrades, but they may not justify replacing a perfectly functional older OLED. If your current TV is struggling with brightness or color, the Samsung S85F OLED TV’s $897 price makes it a worthwhile refresh.
What is the difference between the Samsung S85F and the S85D?
The Samsung S85F OLED TV replaces the 2024 S85D with a QD-OLED panel instead of standard OLED technology. This upgrade delivers more vibrant colors and improved brightness performance. The S85D remains a solid alternative if you find it at a steep discount, but the S85F’s QD-OLED advantage justifies the newer model for most buyers.
Does the Samsung S85F OLED TV come in other sizes?
Yes, the Samsung S85F OLED TV is available in both 55-inch and 65-inch sizes. The 65-inch model is priced at $1,499.99 USD, significantly higher than the current $897 sale price for the 55-inch. Choose based on your room size and viewing distance; 55 inches suits smaller living spaces, while 65 inches provides a more immersive experience for larger rooms.
The Samsung S85F OLED TV’s current $897 price for the 55-inch model is a genuine opportunity to own QD-OLED picture quality at entry-level pricing. Tom’s Guide’s 4-star review backs the purchase, and customer feedback confirms strong real-world performance. If you’ve been waiting for an affordable OLED TV, this deal is worth acting on before inventory runs out.
Where to Buy
55-inch Samsung S85F for just $897 at Amazon | Samsung 55" S85F 4K OLED TV:
Edited by the All Things Geek team.
Source: Tom's Guide
